§ Mrs. FyfeTo ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he has to improve provision for(a) the elderly, (b) children with special needs, (c) adults with mental or 306W physical handicap, (d) adults experiencing and recovering from mental illness and (e) persons with a history of drug and/or alcohol abuse under the care in the community legislation.
§ Mr. Stewart[holding answer 5 July 1993]: Under the new community care arrangements, local authorities, in consultation with health boards and other agencies, are responsible for assessing care needs and developing plans to meet these needs. The authorities have been provided with extensive guidance and considerable additional resources. Local authorities should, therefore, be well placed to ensure that good quality services are available for these vulnerable groups.
The local authority inspection units and the Scottish Office social work services inspectorate are both concerned with promoting higher standards in all types of care provision.